Sump pumps prevent flooding and damage to your home by removing excess water from the sump pit. However, it is vital to know that sump pumps are not infallible and can sometimes malfunction. Understanding the potential causes of sump pump failures and how to address them can help you avoid costly repairs and water damage.
Here are some of the most common causes of sump pump failure and their solutions.
1. Power Outage
The primary cause of sump pump failures is a loss of power. When the power goes out, your sump pump will stop working, leaving your basement vulnerable to flooding. As a preventative measure, installing a backup power source will keep your sump pump functioning and your basement dry even during power outages.
2. Lack of Maintenance
Sump pumps need regular attention to ensure they are functioning correctly and can prevent basement flooding. The float switch is a crucial component of a pump, as it senses the water level and triggers the pump to turn on when it rises. However, if the switch becomes blocked or jammed, the pump cannot activate. Additionally, it is vital to check for any cracks or damage in the pump’s housing and discharge pipe. Regular cleaning of both the sump pit and intake screen is also important to prevent clogging from dirt, rocks, leaves, and other debris that can accumulate over time.
3. Improper Installation
Poorly installed sump pumps can be a common source of problems as the discharge pipe may be too short or positioned at the wrong angle. This can cause water to run back into the pit rather than away from the home, resulting in a sump pump failure. Additionally, water can flow in both directions without an adequately installed check valve, which means that the pump will have backflow into the pit. The check valve ensures that water only moves out of the home.
If you experience a sump pump failure, contacting a professional plumbing service is crucial. We can diagnose and fix the issue at Andersen Plumbing and Heating in Aurora, IL. Additionally, we offer various HVAC services, including heating repair, heating installation and maintenance, Apollo heat system, AC repair, Ac installation and maintenance, water heater, tankless water heater, drain cleaning and sewer repair, and hard water treatments. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for all your plumbing needs.
